The TYCO BFV-300 is an indicating grooved-end butterfly valve for fire protection systems needing a visual open/closed indication, such as system, sectional and pump control valves. Its gear operator has two sets of factory-installed internal SPDT supervisory switches; this model is arranged with supervisory switches for a normally open valve. See grooved joints vs welding.
In short
- Sizes 2″ – 12″ (DN50 – DN300).
- Max. 300 psi up to 8″, 175 psi for 10″ and 12″ (UL/ULC/FM).
- Switch arrangement: supervisory switches for a normally open valve.
- Installs with flow in either direction, horizontal or vertical.
- Approvals: UL, ULC, FM, VdS, CE and EAC.
How the valve and supervisory switch work
Turning the handwheel moves the EPDM disc through the gear operator, and the indicator shows the position. The supervisory switches change state when the disc moves from its normal position within the first two handwheel turns, signalling the fire alarm panel.
In the BFV-300 the normal position is open, so the switch signals when it starts to close.
Models in the datasheet
| Model | Supervisory switches |
|---|---|
| BFV-300 — this model | Normally open valve |
| BFV-300C | Normally closed valve |
Links to the other models are in the “Similar models” table below.
Technical data
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Indicating grooved-end butterfly |
| Sizes | 2″ – 12″ (DN50 – DN300) |
| Max. pressure (UL/ULC/FM) | 300 psi (2″ – 8″) · 175 psi (10″ – 12″) |
| Max. pressure (VdS) | 300 psi (2″ – 8″) · 232 psi (10″) · 175 psi (12″) |
| Max. working temperature | 100°C (UL 1091) |
| Contact rating | 16 A 125/250 VAC · 5 A 24 VDC |
| Materials | Ductile iron body ASTM A-536, EPDM disc, AISI 410 stem |
| Approvals | UL · ULC · FM · VdS · CE · EAC |
The critical point: listed couplings and wiring
Grooved couplings must be listed or approved for fire service and installed per their manufacturer. The supervisory switch is wired to the panel’s supervisory circuit per the authority or the NEC. In foam systems check valve compatibility with the foam concentrate.
Installation steps
- Install with flow in either direction, horizontal or vertical, with any listed pipe schedule.
- Use listed grooved couplings installed per their manufacturer.
- Wire the supervisory switch to the panel supervisory circuit per the datasheet wiring diagram.
- Test that the switch signals within the first two handwheel turns.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the BFV-300C instead of the BFV-300, so supervision is on the wrong position.
- Using couplings not listed for fire service.
- Exceeding the 175 psi limit of the 10″ and 12″ sizes.
Inspection and maintenance
Before closing a main control valve for maintenance, obtain permission from the proper authorities and notify everyone affected. The owner is responsible for inspection, testing and maintenance to NFPA 25 and the authority having jurisdiction; any impairment must be corrected immediately.
Files and ordering
TYCO datasheet TFP1511 and the available approval certificates are in the files section of this page. When ordering, state the model BFV-300 and size. The datasheet lists the part numbers (P/N).
How to order
Use the “Build your order” section on this page: add every model and quantity, then send the whole order by email or WhatsApp. It reaches us as a tidy PDF request sheet and we contact you with the quotation.
FAQ
What is the difference between BFV-300 and BFV-300C?
The switch arrangement: BFV-300 for a normally open valve, BFV-300C for a normally closed valve.
Can it be installed in any direction?
Yes, with flow in either direction, horizontal or vertical.
Is it suitable outdoors?
The datasheet states all listings and approvals are for indoor and outdoor use.
References
- TYCO TFP1511 — Datasheet (attached)
- NFPA 25 — Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
This page is general information to help with selection and ordering, taken from the attached TYCO datasheet. Final design is set by the project’s approved designer; the project specification, the consultant’s drawings and the latest datasheet revision govern.
